Cleaning A Dogs Ears: How To Clean Dog Ears

Need help cleaning a dogs ears? Learn how to clean dog ears and what products to use and tricks to try to keep your dog’s ears clean and healthy.

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Wondering why you have to regularly clean your dog’s ears? Your pup can get infections in their ear canal, and thoroughly cleaning them regularly will significantly cut down on the possibility of this.

Thankfully, it’s fairly easy to clean your dog’s ears at home or with the help of a vet!

The common consensus is that liquid solutions are better than dog ear wipes because they actually get down into the ear canal. According to Dr. Jamie Richardson (veterinarian and chief medical officer at Small Door Veterinary.

“[A] liquid ear cleaning solution is generally much more effective than wipes because dogs’ ear canals are quite long and narrow and actually have a right-angle shape.”

How Often To Clean Dog Ears

It’s recommended that you clean your dog’s ears once a month, but some breeds require more frequent cleanings, especially if they have floppy ears.

How To Clean Your Dog’s Ears

Step 1: Pick Your Dog Ear Cleaning Solution

We recommend using Great Pets Dog Ear Cleaner.

Step 2: Pick a Time When Your Dog is Calm

When your dog is calm, squeeze the solution into your dog’s ear and massage gently at the base of the ear for 30-45 seconds.

You may hear a “squishy” sound as debris and buildup dislodge.

Step 3: Let Your Dog Shake

Once they’re done shaking, take a cotton ball and gently wipe out the ear canal, careful not to go too deep.

Watch a Vet training video on how to clean dog ears:

More Tips For Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears

• Stick to using a liquid dog ear cleaning solution. Wipes don’t get down into the dog’s ear canal.
• It’s not recommended to use hydrogen peroxide to clean your dog’s ears, as it can irritate the ear canal and worsen an infection.
• If your dog appears to be in pain during the cleaning process, or they have continuous issues with their ear buildup, stop and consult your veterinarian.
• Check your dog’s ears regularly after bathtime.
• Don’t clean your dog’s ears too regularly as it can cause irritation.

What tips do you have for cleaning dogs’ ears? Let us know your experience in the comments below.

FrugLife strives to provide accurate advice and helpful resources to pet owners. Your pet’s health is important to us, so please remember that the content on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and is for entertainment purposes only. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s medical or behavioral condition.

*Post originally published May 2022, last updated February 2023.